AquaChile and Benchmark to launch salmon genetics and genomics JV

AquaChile, the world’s 6th largest salmon producer, has signed a breeding and genetic joint venture with leading food innovation company, Benchmark.

The new company – Benchmark Genetics Chile – will combine leading-edge technology in salmon genetics and genomics to drive progress in the future on many of the key traits to the Chilean Industry, including resistance to diseases such as SRS and sea lice.

It will produce eggs in the Chaicas high-quality biosecure land-based facilities in Chile, with support from Benchmark Genetic’s land-based breeding operations in Iceland and genetic technology from Benchmark’s Akvaforsk Genetics in Norway.

Benchmark CEO Malcolm Pye, said: “We are very pleased to announce today’s Chilean joint venture; combining AquaChile’s existing high-quality land-based production and locally adapted genetics business with Benchmark’s leadership in salmon genetics and long-standing research in the field. Together, we believe we will create a world-class operation in Chile.”